Transforming Science Education in an Evolving Global Landscape
In an era where misinformation and disinformation are rampant online, the Science Learning Hub has unveiled a new collection of resources designed to help students counter false information and identify trustworthy sources. These resources, which encompass 'big ideas' in digital literacy, can be incorporated into the Understand, Know, Do framework.
One of the key strategies emphasized is pre-bunking and inoculation, a proactive approach that trains students to recognize common manipulation tactics in misinformation before exposure. This method, similar to a vaccine effect, involves practicing spotting and countering false claims in controlled settings, such as classrooms, through role-playing and repeated exposure to weak false information.
Developing critical digital literacy skills is another essential component. Students need the ability to discern credible from false content, which requires critical thinking, familiarity with logical fallacies, understanding manipulative tactics, and some expert knowledge about information sources.
Verification and fact-checking practices are also crucial. Before accepting or sharing information, students should verify unlikely stories using trusted tools and resources. They can use browser extensions like B.S. Detector to identify clickbait and fake news sites, and tools to check for digitally manipulated images.
Evaluation frameworks like IMVAIN (Identity, Motivation, Veracity, Audience, Immediacy, and Neutrality) can help students systematically assess the reliability of news and information. Rethinking news consumption habits is also recommended, with the aim of expanding information networks to include diverse, high-quality perspectives and reducing echo chambers.
When engaging with others who believe false information, debunking with empathy is advised. Leading with empathy and exchanging narratives nonjudgmentally can foster civil discussion, though changing minds is challenging.
The resources for countering false information were overseen by The Workshop, with a special mention to Julie who wrote "Making sense of our information environment." The term 'fake news' has been in use for more than two centuries, but in recent times, it is often used to shut down conversation and discredit information, regardless of its factuality.
The Science Learning Hub's mission is to stimulate professional thinking and discussion about science education. Supporting resources include articles providing real-life examples of these big ideas, such as Countering false information - key terms, Common logical fallacies, Examples of bad science and countering false information, and Fraudulent study: MMR vaccine controversy.
In addition to these resources, the Science Learning Hub offers support through social media, including fostering connections between the education and science communities. Follow the Science Learning Hub on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.
On August 14, a free webinar titled "Monitoring the moana - participatory science methods with Sally Carson" will be held. The Science Learning Hub also presents the interactive Provocations for science educators, showcasing videos of teachers discussing science education and including prompting questions.
Participatory science methods, such as the Marine Metre Squared citizen science project managed by the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre, allow everyone to contribute to the knowledge about, and action for, our environment. The Science Learning Hub's science education webinar "He mana ōrite, he awa whiria" discusses the inclusion of Mātauranga in science teaching.
These resources aim to equip students with the skills they need to navigate the digital landscape and make informed decisions in the face of misinformation. By fostering critical thinking, empathy, and a commitment to fact-checking, we can empower the next generation to counter false information and promote a more informed society.
In the Science Learning Hub's new collection of resources, learning about critical digital literacy and identifying trustworthy sources is prioritized, especially in the context of education-and-self-development and science. The resources emphasize the importance of learning about verification and fact-checking practices, such as the use of evaluation frameworks, browser extensions, and tools to check for digitally manipulated images, for countering false information effectively.
